A Letter from Peggy,
Innkeeper at Inisfree Estate
Dear Friends,
As I prepare for another Mother’s Day here at Inisfree Estate, where I’m blessed to create breakfast memories for so many families, I’ve been reflecting on motherhood and the precious gift of family stories.
There’s something profoundly grounding about connecting with our parents’ and grandparents’ stories. It gives us a deeper understanding of who they are—and who we are because of them. Looking back, I wish I had been more patient on the days when frustration got the better of me. I can’t change the times I may have hurt my mom’s feelings, but I take comfort in knowing she always knew how deeply I loved and adored her.
When my grandmother passed away at 103, she left behind more than just memories—she left behind a legacy of love, kindness, and resilience. She had a way of seeing the good in everyone, always generous with her time and heart. A few years before she passed, she recorded stories from her life, and what a life it was! Born in 1900, she witnessed an incredible century of change—the invention of television, two World Wars, the moon landing, and late-night laughs with Johnny Carson well into her 90s. She wasn’t just a spectator of history; she lived it. An avid gardener and a devoted musician, she played the piano for two churches every Sunday until she was 98.
One of the greatest gifts my Mother left behind was a Memory Scrapbook, filled with stories of her life—the triumphs, the struggles, and the moments that shaped her. Having that book means the world to me.
Growing up, I watched my mother juggle what seemed like an impossible number of responsibilities—handling four or five tasks at once and then moving straight to the next without missing a beat. Life on the farm meant early mornings, with a big breakfast on the table for my dad before he went to the fields and for us four kids before the school bus arrived. On top of running the household, Mom also worked as the Postmaster at our small community post office. The post office opened at 7 a.m., closed for lunch from noon to 1 p.m., and shut down at 4 p.m. every weekday. That meant Mom’s mornings started early, making breakfast before heading to work, returning home to make lunch for Dad when he came in from the fields, and ending the day by preparing dinner after work.
Weekends brought no rest. Saturdays were for cleaning the house, and Sundays meant church and choir practice. Summers brought extra work as we maintained a large garden—not only to feed our family but also to supply the local grocery stores with fresh produce. Mom spent countless hours canning, freezing, and pickling to make sure nothing went to waste.
Mom was an incredible cook and baker. Everyone loved coming to our house, knowing they’d leave with full stomachs and a special treat. She was also a talented seamstress, making most of the clothes for us three girls. At Christmas, she stayed up late sewing outfits for our Barbie dolls—tiny, delicate pieces made with love.
Mother would do just about anything for her kids. There are lots of stories I could share, but one of my favorites happened during my college years in Atlanta. I had just moved into a studio apartment with a small balcony, and I was so excited to have a private outdoor space where I could have a little garden—I just needed the basics to get it going. Mom and Dad were coming for a visit, and what do you think she did? She hauled a load of good rich topsoil all the way from Mississippi, helped carry it up two flights of stairs, and proceeded to spread it on my balcony. Even today, I’m still in awe that she did this for me.
Now, as a mother myself and as an innkeeper welcoming families to Inisfree Estate, I understand how challenging it is to balance personal needs while caring for others. Motherhood is an incredible job—one that demands wearing so many hats they wouldn’t fit on a résumé.
As I watch mothers and daughters share precious moments here at Inisfree Estate—whether preparing for a wedding day, enjoying a weekend getaway, or simply taking time to reconnect—I’m reminded of the importance of preserving these memories. Mother’s Day is certainly a time to show extra appreciation for our mothers, but I believe it’s also an opportunity to create lasting legacies for our children.
That’s why I encourage all mothers to create an “About Mom” journal for your children. No matter their age, it will be a gift they’ll cherish forever. Your stories—about what life was like when you were growing up, how the world has changed, and how motherhood has shaped you—will become treasured family heirlooms.
Ideas For Your Memory Book
If you’re wondering how to begin such a meaningful project, here are some prompts that might help:
Early Memories
- What are your earliest childhood memories?
- Describe your childhood home. What did it look, sound, and smell like?
- Who were the most influential people in your life growing up?
Family and Traditions
- What family traditions meant the most to you?
- What special meals or recipes remind you of home?
- How did your family celebrate holidays and special occasions?
Becoming a Mother
- How did you feel when you first became a mother?
- What was the most surprising part of motherhood?
- What advice would you give to new moms?
Lessons and Values
- What are the most important life lessons you’ve learned?
- How did your own mother influence the way you parent?
- What values did you hope to pass on to your children?
Life’s Changes
- How has the world changed since you were young?
- What major historical events have shaped your life?
- What personal challenges have made you stronger?
Special Moments with Your Children
- What is your favorite memory with each of your children?
- What funny or heartwarming moments stand out?
- What milestones made you the proudest?
Reflections and Gratitude
- What brings you the most joy as a mother?
- What do you hope your children remember most about you?
- What are you most grateful for in your life?
My mom passed away many years ago, and not a day goes by that I don’t think of her. She grew up during the Great Depression, was separated from her only sibling at a young age, and left college to help support her family. She never complained—instead, she used those hardships to grow stronger and face life’s challenges with grace. I’m forever grateful for the life lessons she taught me and the unwavering love she gave. I was truly blessed to have my mom, Peggy Ruth McKee Gillon. Thank you, Mom, for your love and the example you set.
Here at Inisfree Estate, I’ve found that our peaceful grounds, gardens, and cozy spaces offer the perfect setting for reflection and memory-keeping. Whether you’re starting your own memory book or simply wanting to create new memories with your mother or children, I’d be honored to welcome you here.
With gratitude and warm wishes for a beautiful Mother’s Day,
Peggy Van Wagoner
Innkeeper, Inisfree Estate
